Triathlete Survives Alligator Attack While Training

A triathlete who endured an alligator attack in the Savannah River has recounted his experience. Jonathan Bruney had traveled to the Georgia/South Carolina border for what he believed would be an ordinary training day ahead of an Ironman competition.

“This was basically a work trip for me as a coach,” Bruney said. “We call it a recon course day for my athletes down by the river.” He and his team had planned a straightforward swim focused on maintaining a low heart rate.

However, while leading the group, he suddenly felt a jolt on his elbow, transforming his day of training into a desperate fight for survival.

“I was breathing and looking to my left … and then I felt this force on my right elbow,” he explained, describing the alligator as being around five to six feet long. Initially, he thought it was just a floating log.

“I just couldn’t believe it. I was like, ‘Okay, that’s definitely not a log,’” Bruney recalled, as panic set in.

His instincts kicked in almost immediately, propelling him into survival mode. “This thing’s big enough to bite and barrel roll if I don’t get away fast,” he thought.

Bruney tried a couple of punches, which didn’t seem to help, before he remembered something he learned from watching “Shark Week.” He aimed for the alligator’s eyes, knowing they were sensitive spots. “I squeezed its eye, hoping for the best,” he said.

After making it to shore, Bruney’s concerns swiftly shifted to his fellow athletes. “My first worry was that this gator could hurt one of my athletes,” he noted.

They had no phones on them, so a stranger ended up calling 911. In the meantime, a friend used a swim buoy cord to help stop Bruney’s bleeding.

When first responders arrived, Bruney was feeling faint, and his arm was cold. He appreciated how quickly the police and EMTs arrived. “Within minutes, I could hear their sirens,” he mentioned. “They wrapped my arm up well. Kudos to them for their quick thinking.” The ambulance followed shortly after.

Although doctors cleared him to resume training, Bruney faced a moment of uncertainty about his future after such a traumatic incident. But ultimately, he refused to back down. “Withdrawing my race entry? That’s just not something I’m considering,” he affirmed.

When asked if he would return to the water, he replied without hesitation, “We’ll be back in there.” His determination was evident, showcasing an unwavering spirit despite the ordeal.